For example, many people believe that everyone with heart disease should eat as little fat as possible. In reality, eating some fats actually lowers the risk of heart disease. These healthy fats include unsaturated fats found in vegetable oils and other foods, and omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon and other fatty fishes. The ones to be avoided, because they boost heart attack risk, are saturated and trans fats.

Another myth is that people with heart disease should take it easy. Not so. Physical activity is beneficial for both the healthy heart and the diseased heart. It strengthens the heart muscle, increases blood flow to the heart and brain, and improves overall health.

Here's another: it's okay for blood pressure to rise with age. High blood pressure is a sign that artery walls are becoming stiff. That forces the heart to pump harder, which damages arteries over time. When blood pressure rises above 140/90 millimeters of mercury at any age, it needs attention.

Another common belief is that it's okay to eat anything if you take a cholesterol-lowering drug. In reality, eating foods high in cholesterol and saturated fat make these drugs less effective or even ineffective.

Other myths and misconceptions cover diabetes and cardiovascular disease, the benefits of taking vitamins and minerals, "it's too late to quit smoking," small heart attacks, angioplasty and stenting or bypass surgery as "cures" for heart disease, and gender.

Read the full-length article: "10 myths about heart disease"

Also in the June 2013 issue of the Harvard Heart Letter:

Diet and lifestyle changes than can reduce dependence on blood pressure drugs

Foods, beverages, and supplements to avoid when taking heart medications

What questions to ask when a drug comes under fire

How to prepare for a safe vacation

The Harvard Heart Letter is available from Harvard Health Publications, the publishing division of Harvard Medical School, for $20 per year. Subscribe at http://www.health.harvard.edu/heart or by calling 877-649-9457 (toll-free).

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